“India are not in their best shape… their Super League hasn’t even started yet. Many of their players are frustrated about that. For me, that’s a positive thing. But if you talk about football, what happened in India, happened. They are still professional players, so it will be a tough match. But I believe we will get more chances against India than we did against Nepal.”

With these bold words at Monday’s pre-match press conference, Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuyan set the tone ahead of Tuesday’s blockbuster AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers showdown at 8 PM at the National Stadium.

Bangladesh haven’t beaten India in 22 long years. Their last victory came back in 2003, in Dhaka, during a historic SAFF Championship semi-final — a night etched in Bangladeshi football memory. Since then, the script has been heartbreak after heartbreak: brave performances falling short, gritty draws, narrow defeats, and countless missed chances.

But Jamal believes the story is ready to change. With star diaspora players like Hamza Choudhury, Shamit Shome, and Zayan Ahmed strengthening the squad, Bangladesh finally feel armed with the firepower and confidence needed to end the two-decade drought.

Despite spirited performances in recent matches, the red-and-greens have yet to taste victory. Jamal wants that winning feeling back — against the oldest rivals of all.

“This is a very emotional match, a high-voltage derby. After this, we have a long break in the national team calendar. If we can finish the year with a win, it will be positive not just for us, but for the fans and for all of you. This is the strongest Bangladesh squad we have had, and we have a big chance.”

Head coach Javier Cabrera, the longest-serving coach in Bangladesh’s football history, shares that belief. Since 2022, the Spaniard has overseen a transformation — stronger mentality, improved structure, and growing confidence. His only previous meeting with India ended in a gritty 0–0 draw in March, Hamza’s debut match.

Now, in the second act of this rivalry under his watch, Cabrera is hungry for three points — and nothing less.

“We have to win. The team needs to be strong, motivated, and follow the plan. We know their weaknesses, we know where we can hurt them. We deserve the three points, and we are stronger than ever. That is my honest belief,” Cabrera said, his voice firm with conviction.

He acknowledged the emotional weight carried by players, fans, and the nation alike.

“There is a lot of emotion in this match — it’s a derby. Motivation is good, but we must control it. We have the level, we are stronger than ever, and we must take this opportunity to finally beat India. We are very convinced we can get the three points tomorrow.”

Bangladesh dream of ending 22 years of waiting. India arrive under pressure, not fully in rhythm. The stage is set. The rivalry is burning. And under the Dhaka lights tonight, the red-and-greens believe history can finally be rewritten.